ISLAMABAD – In a dramatic development, the special court announced its long-awaited May 9 Riots Verdict, acquitting PTI leader and former Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi, while sentencing senior party figure Dr. Yasmin Rashid to 10 years in prison.
The ruling comes in connection with the violent protests and unrest that erupted nationwide following the arrest of PTI Chairman Imran Khan on May 9, 2023. The riots saw attacks on public and military properties, leading to widespread arrests of party leaders and supporters.
According to the judgment, Shah Mehmood Qureshi was cleared of all charges due to insufficient evidence directly linking him to acts of vandalism or incitement. However, Dr. Yasmin Rashid was found guilty of orchestrating and encouraging violent demonstrations that resulted in severe damage to public property.
Legal experts have termed the verdict a landmark in Pakistan’s political and judicial history. PTI’s legal team welcomed Qureshi’s acquittal but strongly criticized the sentencing of Yasmin Rashid, vowing to challenge it in higher courts.
Meanwhile, the government has hailed the decision as a step towards accountability, claiming it sends a clear message that “no one is above the law.” Security across key cities was heightened in anticipation of public reaction, though no major protests were reported immediately after the announcement.
The May 9 Riots Verdict is expected to have a significant impact on PTI’s political landscape ahead of upcoming elections, as it reshapes the legal standing of key party figures.
